Gorgonocephalus

Characteristics

Basket stars are characterized by their numerous, branched arms that form a complex network. The arms are covered in numerous small, hooked spines, which help them capture prey and anchor themselves to the substrate. They have a central disc that is often small compared to the size of their arms. These arms can reach up to 60 cm in length, and the entire organism can grow to a diameter of over 1 meter.

Their coloration is typically reddish-brown, but can vary depending on the species and their environment. Like other brittle stars, they lack spines and possess a madreporite that is located on the oral surface. Their arms are composed of numerous ossicles, and are often described as "fragile" because they can easily break off. The arms are also flexible, allowing them to move in a variety of ways.

Habitat and Distribution

Basket stars are found in a variety of marine environments, including deep-sea and shallow-water habitats. They are primarily found in the cold waters of the Atlantic, Pacific, and Indian Oceans. Their preferred habitat is often rocky substrates, coral reefs, or kelp forests. Basket stars are benthic organisms, meaning they live on the seafloor, and are often found in areas with strong currents.

Diet and Feeding

Basket stars are carnivores and primarily feed on small invertebrates, including plankton, crustaceans, and fish larvae. They use their branching arms to trap prey and bring it to their mouths. When a prey item touches the arms, the hooks on the surface capture it. Their feeding strategy is often described as "suspension feeding," as they capture food from the water column.

Reproduction

Basket stars reproduce sexually, and fertilization occurs externally. Females release eggs into the water, where they are fertilized by sperm released by males. The eggs develop into free-swimming larvae that eventually settle on the seafloor and metamorphose into adults. Like other brittle stars, they can reproduce asexually by fragmentation, allowing a single individual to generate multiple offspring.

References

• [Gorgonocephalus](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Gorgonocephalus)
• [Gorgonocephalidae](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Gorgonocephalidae)
• [Brittle Star](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Brittle_star)